From foedc@igc.apc.orgSat May 4 11:48:29 1996 Date: Fri, 3 May 1996 12:52:01 -0700 (PDT) From: Friends of the Earth To: sanet-mg@amani.ces.ncsu.edu Subject: Attn: Farmers Dear Farm Manager: I am a fellow at Friends of the Earth in Washington D.C. and could use your help. We are working on a project designed to protect our nation's groundwater to make sustainable agriculture a realizeable goal. Part of the study involves identifying pioneers such as yourself who have already or are in the process of reducing or eliminating pesticides. We want to include in our study on pesticides in groundwater evidence of alternative farmers who are minimizing the use of pesticides that leach to groundwater. Doing so will help depict a clearer understanding of the experiences of people practicing sustainable agriculture and better inform the public and policymakers of the realities of reducing pollution at its source. The questions fall under areas of general information and practices; groundwater problems in your area; possible difficulties in the transition; and overall performance. Although you may not be comfortable revealing financial information, these questions are the most important for depicting a true picture of the types of investments and experiences of farmers. If you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to call me at (202) 783-7400, extension 237. Once you have completed the questionnaire, please send or fax it to our office, or e-mail at crawfoj@rtk.net. Because we are working under a tight schedule, I and my colleagues ask that you complete this set of questions by May 24. I thank you in advance for your participation. Sincerely, Jenn Crawford